A coalition of leading autism organisations has sharply criticised the Government’s reply to a House of Lords review of the Autism Act, accusing ministers of failing to take the issue seriously. Groups including Ambitious About Autism, Autistica and the National Autistic Society say the response lacks urgency and sidesteps the need for a clear, dedicated plan for autistic people.

The charities argue that ministers relied heavily on broad, existing policies rather than addressing the specific recommendations made by peers. They point to strategies such as the NHS 10-Year Plan, which they say does not properly consider the needs of autistic people, as evidence that autism continues to be absorbed into wider agendas without targeted action.

Campaigners are particularly concerned that no commitment has been made to replace the current national autism strategy, which expired last summer. Despite the legal framework set out in the Autism Act, the Government has offered no timetable for a new strategy or explanation of how it will meet its obligations. The organisations say this lack of clarity risks prolonging long-standing failures in support and services.

The groups warn that continued inaction has serious consequences, including poorer health outcomes, higher rates of mental ill-health, exclusion from education and extremely low employment levels. They also highlighted the unprecedented volume of evidence submitted to the Lords inquiry, saying it demonstrated strong public concern. The charities are urging ministers to engage properly with autistic people and their families and to deliver concrete, joined-up measures rather than further general promises.